Local children invited to write sleepy stories

Children aged six to 12 are being invited to take part in a national story writing competition.

Published:18:00Saturday 16 April 2016

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Local school children are being invited to put pen to paper for a national story writing competition to be judged by renowned children’s author and former Children’s Laureate, Anne Fine OBE.

The Sleepy Stories by Silentnight campaign aims to encourage families to keep bedtime reading at the heart of their night time routine.

Nearly a third of UK parents only read their children a bedtime story once a week or less, despite 83% of children saying they enjoy being read aloud to and 68% describing it as a special time with their parents.

The competition asks children aged six to 12 years old to submit a short story of between 250 and 500 words that features the brand’s loveable mascots, Hippo and Duck.

Anne Fine will choose the winning story, which will then be illustrated and published with her foreword.

The finished book will be presented to the winner at a special celebration ceremony at their school hosted by Anne. The winner will also receive £1,000 worth of books for their school, a brand new bed and a giant Hippo and Duck soft toy.

Nick Booth, Marketing Director at Silentnight, said: “We believe passionately in the power of a bedtime story, not only is it proven to better literacy skills but it strengthens the bond between parent and child.

“Most of us have fond memories of being read a bedtime story and we want to encourage families to keep the reading and storytelling tradition alive.”

Anne Fine, who has written children’s books such as Jamie and Angus Forever and The Return of the Killer Cat, commented: “Some of my happiest and most relaxed times as a parent and grandparent have been reading bedtime stories to my children and grandchildren, so I’m delighted to be part of this initiative.

“My daughters, and all four of my grandsons, are passionate readers, and I strongly believe that this was as a result of having regular bedtime stories.

“Many children adore writing stories, so every chance they get to write whatever takes their fancy, in their own way, is liberating for them. I’m always fascinated by young people’s imaginations so am very much looking forward to reading the entries.”

Entries can be made and more information can be found online by visiting www.silentnight.co.uk/sleepy-stories